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NASA Detects Organic Molecules in Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Discovered on July 1, 2025, with SPHEREx Records Between December 8 and 15 During Its Passage Through the Solar System
A NASA space observatory identified an interstellar comet releasing organic molecules associated with pre-biological chemistry in 3I/ATLAS, discovered on July 1, 2025, with data collected by SPHEREx between December 8 and 15, 2025, during its departure from the Solar System.
The detection was made from the analysis of the material expelled by the object as it approached the Sun and subsequently crossed the region near Earth’s orbit. Among the identified compounds are methanol, hydrogen cyanide, and methane.
Discovery and Classification of the Interstellar Comet
3I/ATLAS was identified by the automated ATLAS system, aimed at monitoring near-Earth objects.
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Following the initial confirmation, the body was classified as a rare interstellar comet, as it formed outside the Solar System.
Such objects traverse the space between stars before temporarily entering planetary systems like ours.
The identification of 3I/ATLAS has heightened scientific interest regarding its origin and composition.
Organic Molecules Detected in the Active Coma
During its trajectory, the heating caused by proximity to the Sun led to the formation of an active coma, composed of gas and dust.
This cloud expanded and allowed the release of organic molecules considered fundamental chemical building blocks.
The data show the presence of methanol, cyanide, and methane, substances linked to reactions that may precede biological structures in suitable environments.
Although they do not represent life, they are understood as essential components in pre-biological processes.
Role of the SPHEREx Telescope in the Observations
The SPHEREx space telescope, launched in March 2025, was responsible for capturing the chemical signatures of the interstellar comet.
The equipment operates in the infrared with the aim of mapping the sky and analyzing the composition of celestial objects.
The observations took place between December 8 and 15, 2025, during which 3I/ATLAS was already on a trajectory out of the Solar System. The records allowed for the identification of the molecules present in the released material.
Scientific Implications of the Analyses
Experts point out that the study of the interstellar comet provides direct access to the primordial chemical composition of an object formed around another star, possibly billions of years ago.
The presence of these compounds reinforces the hypothesis that complex organic matter may be widely distributed throughout the universe.
However, the results do not indicate the existence of life on 3I/ATLAS but expand understanding of processes that may precede its emergence.
The analyses also highlight that the detection of these molecules in an interstellar visitor enhances the understanding of the circulation of organic compounds between stellar systems.
With information from Aventuras na História.
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